One of the best things I've gotten for my kids were nice sketchbooks. They're canvas-covered chipboard covers with lay-flat binding. They're about 9x7 which is a fantastic size to throw in a backpack for road trips and also fit in their lap desks (another worthwhile purchase because my kids do most of their creating and now schooling in the living room floor and the pottery barn teen lap desks are a fantastic size and give them a place to keep their personal supplies organized). These books keep my kids from constantly generating loose leaf papers and give them a place to collect their works in one place. When they're full, we will mark the years they were used and archive them into their memory boxes, and start a new book. My kids have thrived with this since I got them their sketchbooks. Some different mediums are also very worthwhile investments--gel pens, nicer markers, a large colored pencil set, etc.
First of all, I don’t have any little ones around the house, but I do teach Kindergarten during the school year and first grade during the summer. During summer school I would give my kiddos things like paper plates, yarn, foil, toothpicks, and tape, and then challenge them to make something “strong, or beautiful, or even something specific like a ship or car” just using those tools. I had many parents tell me after summer school that they were shocked at how creative their kiddos were becoming. So if minimizing “craft” supplies seems like a battle, start off by making it a challenge “let’s see what you can make using x, y, and z”. A lot of kiddos LOVE a good challenge.
I watched your latest video on less toys means happier kids. And i had been feeling overwhelmed for months with my son's play area. I decided. I'll just do it. He's alseep and I'll do it. It took me three hours. Four boxes and two garbage bags (small ones). All his toys fit in his two toy boxes. And I was able to set up his little tent that's been on the floor. Thank you so much. Tomorrow I'm tackling our craft supplies and setting up the table in the basement for him! 👍
I am one of those ADHD moms the follow thru with any job is so difficult for me I will start several jobs in several different rooms and I absolutely get teared up about it I have to say out loud stay on task stay on task my daughter came over today and got more accomplished in an hour then I did the entire day Another issue is people say well everything needs a place how do you know where that place is ?? that's always been a problem what would be logical doesn't come to some people but your videos have been so helpful to me you're just so logical and kind you do not ramble On and On you stay on task yourself the point you're trying to make step by step which has really helped me I have been overwhelmed with all the stuff my grandkids live here and my daughter and it's a lot of stuff for a house this size With your videos l feel like WE are making a dent in this wall of STUFF I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart being a minimalist for some people it something they choose to do to make life easier. I know there's other people out there like me that organization is not one of their gifts I have struggled with it my whole entire life and people have heard me say over and over I guess when I get to heaven I'll be organized I believe literally out of desperation I found your channel like I said some people choose a minimalist life to make it easier some of us need to learn these things so we can have a life because the struggle is real for us .
Yes! Sandra, I have felt the same way my whole life! I am now turning 60 and still raising kids (I had 7) and still trying to get some "organization" to my life. These videos are a GREAT help. I am so thankful that I was led to them.
Finally, a mommy you tuber with some actual real advice. I just found your channel and love it. Could you make a video on what to do with the arts the kids craft.
I have just recently found your channel. AND I LOVE IT! Your videos are well thought out, organized, to the point and so helpful! I am a recovering shopaholic and overwhelmed mom who has been on a minimalism journey since the beginning of the year. I FEEL SO GOOD ! Living this way has brought my family and I so much happiness and I just finished what I like to call phase one. I look around my house and still feel like there is so much to minimize. My mindset has totally shifted and its like I get excited to purge and live with less. I used to hate cleaning and everything took FOREVER! Now things are so simple, my house stays clean, my kids are happier, I am happier and I just feel in control of "keeping a house" I really think your channel is going to explode because this minimalism movement is what so many moms need in this world of overconsumption that we live in!
I'm glad to have found you, too! SO cool to hear your story Kait, I'm sure it will inspire many others!! I totally agree with how it is kind of fun to keep it house when we aren't overwhelmed by it, I feel like I'm turning into my grandma ;) And I'm excited to follow your channel as well, I would LOVE to learn more about foster care...Tom isn't quite there yet, but I'll just keep praying for him ;)
The Minimal Mom I will pray for him too! It’s the best thing I have ever done with my life. Gives so much perspective and it is so rewarding to help these innocent kids.
As a kid who was very creative and artistic, I received a lot of art supplies and kits for doing very specific things (when mostly I stuck to building/making things from recycled material, drawing, and painting) and the result was a) I didn't use them and b) I felt pressure and guilt because they were gifts and I was "supposed" to grow as an artist. Good on you, Dawn, for just being happy to let your kids, and especially your daughter, enjoy creating and not worrying about enrolling her in programs and camps. My greatest art inspiration/lessons were probably Mark Kistler's Draw Squad on PBS, back in the day when it was on like once a week and tv was the only way to access it! I recently found Art Hub for Kids on UA-cam and my 3-year-old was so excited to draw Mario stuff, haha.
I absolutely love your channel. We just downsized and have become a minimalist family. I actually LOVE going through each room and looking for stuff the kids don’t use and put it in the donate bag. I’m happy to know other moms feel the same way... and now there is a channel that completely relates!!! Thank you for your videos! Gonna tackle the art stuff today!
Thank you Rhea!! Yes, there was definitely a tipping point where it went from "ugh I need to get rid of stuff" to "sweet! what can I get rid of next!!!" So glad to be on the backside of that mountain ;)
Your tip on considering clean up time is on point. I always tell my son if we can't clean up everything in 5 mins or less then we have too much stuff. We use a timer and he races around!
Hi Dawn. I found your channel when I was on a quest to de-stress. I am a mother of two and I have severe arthritis which complicates life and it’s flow. I have pain, physical limitation and low energy. I was struck by a comment you made in one of your blogs that you had to manage everything that entered your home and to get rid of whatever taunted you. YES! This helped me so much! Your tips are priceless as I revamp my lifestyle to promote health and wellness in every possible way. Minimalism is becoming a core part of my protocol!
Thank you!! I have a very creative 8 year old. She got sooooo many crafts for her birthday and since then (4 months ago) she stopped creating. Her space is just overwhelming. We are going back to basics so she can start creating again.
I’m so glad I watched this. I almost skipped it as I didn’t think I needed to worry about my arts and crafts. But I was just gonna put them all in a tote when I organize and declutter the area they’re in. And that would’ve been the same as having them in the drawer like they are now. I LOVE the art cart from IKEA! And there are so many similar options on Amazon. Totally doing this! I think it will help my kids spend more time coloring etc!
All of the things you recommended I agree with! I would add hammocks. We have found these for $15 at Aldie and my kids will lay in them all day with books. Also, slack line or ninja warrior course. But you have to have a tree for that. It has kept our girls occupied for hours on end
Tempura paint sticks are great for the kids. They go on smooth like paint, but dry in 90 seconds or less. There is no water or brushes, so clean up is a breeze. Love watching your videos!
As always your video hit just the right points. I have begun removing clutter a lot, lately. Your advice is gold. My child had sensory issues , so we bought every kind of art supply to experiment. Glue, glitter, crayons, paper, beads , string, scissors and clear contact paper (for sun catchers). 1 shoe box is all we have for 2 kids now.
Just found your channel and am overwhelmed with gratitude. I’m determined to take back peace and time for what really matters. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
I love these videos! I’m sitting in line at the Salvation Army at the moment watching more of them. The best part is I have 4 boxes & a large bag of stuff I’ve decluttered sitting in my back seat ready to be donated!! Thank you for all of the hard work you put into helping others create space in their lives.
This is one thing that we are in the process of doing right now to help streamline our home and make things easier and more accessible for the kids (and us!). We are setting up an art/tinker/STEM station in a little odd nook and a reading nook in a dining area that we didn't use. Everything is basically in one big room, but still separated into organized areas. I'm so excited about this!
Oh I think that is a brilliant way to organize. I will adopt your art/tinker/STEM station because my twins are such different creatures (one artsy the other scientific), I can make the station so both find it helpful. I am going to put it on the tv wall so hopefully they will be tempted to use it instead of turning on the tv.
Sooo true!!! Just wanted to mention that I recently found a store...I believe it's actually called I'D.E.A.S., that will thankfully take all your used or new office and creative supplies. I thought it was such a great idea! ;) My kids get so many of those art sets too, I'm really excited to have found a place to donate the unused supplies. Just wanted to mention you don't have to necessarily throw out the unused or partly used supplies. Thank you so much for your channel!!! I've learned so much!
I LOVE, LOVE what you have to say. This (among many others) video was so inspirational! Gave me great ideas on how to change a lot of things up for my kids! Thank you!
So true…when I'm reorganizing anything it always seems like the most helpful tip is to get rid of half of it, haha! I agree - taking away some of the big blue bins and replacing them with simpler systems looks great and especially inviting for the kids to come create!
RIght!?! When we work with sellers we always tell them "make sure all of your closets and cabinets are only half full so it looks like your house has plenty of storage" and then they do it and are like "this is so nice, we should keep it this way!" I'm slowly trying to convert everyone we work with into a minimalist ;) haha, just kidding!!
Again I love all the information you share with being a minimalist Mom it is so helpful and I've learned so much... my little granddaughter is still very young and so my other daughter who takes care of her when her mom is working.... does craft activities with her and her crafts are located out in the garage on a shelving unit that I've told the whole family that they are welcome to get into at any point in time and that has been a real help. I know that one day I will have to pair those things down because she'll be getting into those crafts supplies, herself....and will need a system of her very own....your ideas are amazing and I thank you so much. (The reason I came up with the shelving idea I have a all my scrapbooking and rubber stamping supplies out in the garage and with these I decided I just needed a separate area so that the grandkids could be able to take advantage of using those supplies that they could, themselves....thus shelving system has also helped my other daughter do her projects for school...and, this area has also helped with VBS, ect.... again, hanks so much...love your kids crafting area.😀
I know this is an old video but it I’m here because I have a very crafty 5 year old. So far what we have is a basket for finished art she wants to keep, a desk to work at, a tray for paper, an open container for makers, and a couple hooks on the wall for scissors and tape. We also have one bin of other art supplies (paint, googly eyes etc) that’s kept at the bottom of my linen closet. It works-ish but still could use some tweaking because her desk looks like a tornado hit it on a daily basis.
Fantastic! We bought an old armoire second hand and use it as our art cabinet. I put Sterilite drawers inside with the supplies. I love that I can close it up!
I just bought one of those caddies from the dollar tree to organize our pencils and markers for school and it's working very nicely :) I have a few of the dollar tree drawer organizers for crayons and other markers and dry erase markers in our school cabinet with the coloring books.
Thank you so much for sharing this. I had asked about art supplies on an old video so thank you for making this. I really appreciate it and every sentiment is exactly the same in our house (we get so much from others and our desk(s) look crazy).
Wonderful, as always! 💜 I love how you are minimalist but in a very realistic way, especially with having multiple kids. Can you do a grocery shopping/meal prep and kitchen one next?! :)
The Minimal Mom yay! Thank you! I can't wait!!! :) The kitchen/meals is the most stressful thing for me. Lol I definitely need to get simplify something.
8 kids, that is awesome!! I would love that, I'm still praying for Tom to get there ;) But four healthy kids is of course awesome, too ;) I'm very glad these are helpful!!!
I set up a new craft supply area in our new custom built-ins. Everything is in shoebox size plastic containers with lids. Boy was that a mistake.it's really hard to clean up and frustrating to get everything back in the right boxes. I like the containers you used because they're open. this video helps me think about how our craft supply space could be better.
I just found your channel and I’m loving your tips! I love how you described the IKEA bins. We have so many IKEA bins in the expedit shelf and they are just too big for useful storage. I’ll be switching them out next!
I'm always glad to hear that I'm not the only one who doesn't actually find them helpful! My first thought is always "whats wrong with us that this isn't working, they must sell a million of those a year" then I realize that maybe I'm not alone ;)
Love this! My daughter will be 9 in June & she is very creative & artistic so I needed this video. Though now I need to find the video of what you do with all the “creations”. ;). She’s always making things for us & she’s very sensitive about anything being thrown away. Needless to say her crafting area is hard to maintain. 😳
Oh my goodness! I just found your channel and have been binge watching ever since! Thank you for giving us moms permission to not have to live in this EXCESS world! Love your channel!
Just found your channel a few days ago and as I tried to go through the art supplies today I thought I wonder if she’ll do a video - and surprise you have lol - thanks so much - now to pair it down to the basics😊
Hi Dawn!! I absolutely love your channel!! It’s helping me so much! I was wondering if you could do a video of decluttering Mom Art Supplies? I know you’re not really a crafter but maybe Diana is or a friend? My Craft Room is my worst room and I’d love help!!
Yes! I was excited to see this video, as organizing art supplies is on my to-do list before the start of the new school year. Great tips! Love your channel! 💕
We used to have one of the bins in our toy storage dedicated to dress up clothes, but now our girls don't play with them anymore, it was a sad day when I donated them!!!
We had an old suitcase that worked out well for some very old dress up adult clothing. When we were done it got closed and tucked away...easy to donate when finished too since both container and contents can go together for next family to enjoy!
I Love most of your videos 💜 like this one, thank you, My 8yo daughter also loves anything creative, My place is almost always a mess... I was an organized person before I had kids
What about when you have younger kids that draw on walls and tables and need to ne monitored when using art supplies? Where do you keep them? Thats what I struggle with in a small house
This may not apply to you anymore but I have a cabinet that I put a hasp and combo lock on. I have things like the art supplies, batteries, games with little pieces, and little legos in there. I keep that stuff locked up and bring it out when they ask for it so they aren’t pulling it out and confetti-ing it all around the house. When they are older I’m sure I won’t need to lock it up anymore.
I love your black cube storage for the kids toys in your living room. Did you buy it black or paint it? I cannot for the life of me find it anywhere and I would like to purchase one!
Hi, I'm loving your videos! I would like to see more about how you added the extra shelves. I have having the same problem that the cubbies hold way too much. Thanks.
Well Tabitha, I did it while Tom was at work and it maybe wasn't the best quality (at first)!!! ;) He helped me reinforce them later :) But basically all I did was buy a piece of pre-finished shelving from Home Depot that was about the same depth as the cubes. I cut two pieces to the width of the cubes. Then I cut four "bracket pieces" out of the same board, each were about 2" x 6". I screwed each bracket piece into the side of the cube and then just set the shelf on top. Unfortunately, with the angle I was trying to screw the bracket pieces of wood in at, it was kind of difficult, so I just had one screw in each, it held everything in place, but definitely wasn't a long term solution! So then Tom went back and added an extra couple of screws to each, now it is very solid :) They'll cut the boards for you at the home improvement store if you don't have a saw!
I love that shelf desk you got for your kids! I’m trying to find it on IKEA online and can’t. Do you have the link or remember what exactly it’s called? Thanks!
I have 3 boys and my 4th and youngest is a girl. She loves art projects! The boys don't. These tips are super helpful. I think I will look for a cart, because we do not have room for this awesome desk!!!
I love you workstation for the kids how can I get one? Just started watching and finished cleaning my kitchen out. I can’t believe what I found lol Thanks for the great info
Dawn I have been binging your videos and tackling my home and cannot begin to tell you how significant and inspirational you have been. I have quite a predicament: how do I ~storganize (made that up) art supplies for my 4 year old when my 2 year old gets into EVERYTHING?! If anyone has ideas please share. Any solution I've thought up that gives 4yo independence being able to access also means it will NEVER be maintained bc 2yo can get it. Can open doors, climbs, is very exploratory. I have really been stumped and don't want to deprive my eldest by waiting for the other one to "mature." Thank you please help!
My son loves to ride his balance bike outside he’s two & be going so fast i be like slow down wait for me 😂😂 I’m in my declutter era & simplifying my space
Our 2 daughters are blessed to have all 4 of their grandparents still living, and living locally too. They are very generous to all of us, but it’s just too much stuff! I don’t know how to stop it without hurting their feelings. It’s got so much worse during lockdown. They send gifts, to make up for us not being able to meet up. Our girls don’t get at all excited now when a parcel arrives, and are very quickly bored with the contents, so it’s affecting their gratitude too. What can we do? X
Ok question for this video on the organising of the art corner! I love LOVE this and definitely something I need to do with my kids BUT what do you do with the drawings they al draw you or the things they make? Do you keep everything? Keep it for a little while or bin it? Which I alway feel Guilty over..
Hi Sarah! I actually made them myself, but I didn't highlight that because they would have turned out better if Tom had done it and I had just waited for him to get home ;) I just bought a piece of pre-finished shelving from Home Depot that was close to the depth that I needed (the cubes are 15 1/2" deep) and then used a saw to cut it to width (they'll do this at the home improvement store for you, too) and then I cut some smaller pieces (6" x 2") to use as "brackets" to hold up the shelves. I used screws to attach the brackets to the sides of the cube walls. I WISH Ikea offered something like this, would have made life easier!!! :)
@@TheMinimalMom Ikea used to offer the shelves like that. It's too bad they discontinued them :( I remember seeing them on clearance a couple years back right when they discontinued the Expedit and replaced it with the Kallax system. They're such a good idea! We should all petition Ikea to bring them back.
My kids have a art clothesline on a bedroom wall. They display their art for awhile then it's not on my fridge or in a bin . When they need more room it's time to throw some out😉
My kids are young, 4 & 1. Yet still, we've accumulated SO MUCH arts n crafts. Unfortunately they're not at an age yet where I can safely leave stuff out. I struggle with finding a balance of keeping it tucked away safe + wanting my 4 year old to create on her own, which would mean leaving things accessible to her. This is definitely an area of struggle for me.
I was hpping you would do a video on adult art supplies bc it's about having items available to make yhings, but then I thought that the same thing could actually apply to my art too. Really think if I use the cricut machine or could hand cutting work bc i dont use it for intricate designs anyways. Just an example. And i made a corner of our dining room into art area and they dont reallu use it bc that's not where the action is. I have an area.in living room now that would be perfect to tone down supplies and i have the space bc no more toys they dont play with. Thanks as always .
But how do you keep the younger kids from taking everything out all at once? And to clean up their messes when they're done? So many times I find that they've had a ton of creative fun, and run off to do something else...leaving art supplies in reach of the toddler that she should not be using unsupervised.
Yes! Here is the desk and shelves: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S09123087/ (we used non-adjustable legs which made it a little less expensive: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10217971/)
Do any of your kids want to collect things? My son seems to want to collect things, so he has those collections in bins, but he doesn't do anything with them and he is 12.
YES! They do, but after awhile we talk about if they are actually still collecting or if it is time to let them go so it hasn't become too big of a problem yet!
Right now, just from birthdays or doing jobs for their grandparents. We haven't started allowances yet because we feel that they should help around the house as part of living here, but we will eventually put an allowance system in place for extra jobs as they get older.
@@TheMinimalMom that's what I was thinking, your kids already have their jobs around the house, so how would they earn money then lol and how many chores are enough? Not to overwhelm a child and leave room for extra chores.
One of the best things I've gotten for my kids were nice sketchbooks. They're canvas-covered chipboard covers with lay-flat binding. They're about 9x7 which is a fantastic size to throw in a backpack for road trips and also fit in their lap desks (another worthwhile purchase because my kids do most of their creating and now schooling in the living room floor and the pottery barn teen lap desks are a fantastic size and give them a place to keep their personal supplies organized). These books keep my kids from constantly generating loose leaf papers and give them a place to collect their works in one place. When they're full, we will mark the years they were used and archive them into their memory boxes, and start a new book. My kids have thrived with this since I got them their sketchbooks. Some different mediums are also very worthwhile investments--gel pens, nicer markers, a large colored pencil set, etc.
I’m binge watching your videos 👍🏼
So am I ☝🏼!
Same! 😁
Me too 🤣
Yup!
Same!!
First of all, I don’t have any little ones around the house, but I do teach Kindergarten during the school year and first grade during the summer. During summer school I would give my kiddos things like paper plates, yarn, foil, toothpicks, and tape, and then challenge them to make something “strong, or beautiful, or even something specific like a ship or car” just using those tools. I had many parents tell me after summer school that they were shocked at how creative their kiddos were becoming. So if minimizing “craft” supplies seems like a battle, start off by making it a challenge “let’s see what you can make using x, y, and z”. A lot of kiddos LOVE a good challenge.
I watched your latest video on less toys means happier kids. And i had been feeling overwhelmed for months with my son's play area. I decided. I'll just do it. He's alseep and I'll do it. It took me three hours. Four boxes and two garbage bags (small ones). All his toys fit in his two toy boxes. And I was able to set up his little tent that's been on the floor. Thank you so much. Tomorrow I'm tackling our craft supplies and setting up the table in the basement for him! 👍
I am one of those ADHD moms
the follow thru with any job
is so difficult for me I will start several jobs in several different rooms and I absolutely get teared up about it I have to say out loud stay on task stay on task my daughter came over today and got more accomplished in an hour then I did the entire day Another issue is people say well everything needs a place
how do you know where that place is ?? that's always been a problem what would be logical doesn't come to some people but your videos have been so helpful to me you're just so logical and kind you do not ramble On and On you stay on task yourself the point you're trying to make
step by step which has really helped me
I have been overwhelmed with all the stuff my grandkids live here and my daughter and it's a lot of stuff for a house this size
With your videos l feel like WE are making a dent in this wall of STUFF I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart being a minimalist for some people it something they choose to do to make life easier. I know there's other people out there like me that organization is not one of their gifts I have struggled with it my whole entire life and people have heard me say over and over I guess when I get to heaven I'll be organized
I believe literally out of desperation I found your channel like I said some people choose a minimalist life to make it easier some of us need to learn these things so we can have a life because the struggle is real for us .
Yes! Sandra, I have felt the same way my whole life! I am now turning 60 and still raising kids (I had 7) and still trying to get some "organization" to my life. These videos are a GREAT help. I am so thankful that I was led to them.
Finally, a mommy you tuber with some actual real advice. I just found your channel and love it. Could you make a video on what to do with the arts the kids craft.
THANK YOU and YES, that is coming up next!!! :)
I have just recently found your channel. AND I LOVE IT! Your videos are well thought out, organized, to the point and so helpful! I am a recovering shopaholic and overwhelmed mom who has been on a minimalism journey since the beginning of the year. I FEEL SO GOOD ! Living this way has brought my family and I so much happiness and I just finished what I like to call phase one. I look around my house and still feel like there is so much to minimize. My mindset has totally shifted and its like I get excited to purge and live with less. I used to hate cleaning and everything took FOREVER! Now things are so simple, my house stays clean, my kids are happier, I am happier and I just feel in control of "keeping a house" I really think your channel is going to explode because this minimalism movement is what so many moms need in this world of overconsumption that we live in!
I'm glad to have found you, too! SO cool to hear your story Kait, I'm sure it will inspire many others!! I totally agree with how it is kind of fun to keep it house when we aren't overwhelmed by it, I feel like I'm turning into my grandma ;) And I'm excited to follow your channel as well, I would LOVE to learn more about foster care...Tom isn't quite there yet, but I'll just keep praying for him ;)
The Minimal Mom I will pray for him too! It’s the best thing I have ever done with my life. Gives so much perspective and it is so rewarding to help these innocent kids.
As a kid who was very creative and artistic, I received a lot of art supplies and kits for doing very specific things (when mostly I stuck to building/making things from recycled material, drawing, and painting) and the result was a) I didn't use them and b) I felt pressure and guilt because they were gifts and I was "supposed" to grow as an artist. Good on you, Dawn, for just being happy to let your kids, and especially your daughter, enjoy creating and not worrying about enrolling her in programs and camps. My greatest art inspiration/lessons were probably Mark Kistler's Draw Squad on PBS, back in the day when it was on like once a week and tv was the only way to access it! I recently found Art Hub for Kids on UA-cam and my 3-year-old was so excited to draw Mario stuff, haha.
I love what you said about the bins being too much. Great tips.
Thank you! Live and learn, right? :)
I absolutely love your channel. We just downsized and have become a minimalist family. I actually LOVE going through each room and looking for stuff the kids don’t use and put it in the donate bag. I’m happy to know other moms feel the same way... and now there is a channel that completely relates!!! Thank you for your videos! Gonna tackle the art stuff today!
Thank you Rhea!! Yes, there was definitely a tipping point where it went from "ugh I need to get rid of stuff" to "sweet! what can I get rid of next!!!" So glad to be on the backside of that mountain ;)
Your tip on considering clean up time is on point. I always tell my son if we can't clean up everything in 5 mins or less then we have too much stuff. We use a timer and he races around!
Hi Dawn. I found your channel when I was on a quest to de-stress. I am a mother of two and I have severe arthritis which complicates life and it’s flow. I have pain, physical limitation and low energy. I was struck by a comment you made in one of your blogs that you had to manage everything that entered your home and to get rid of whatever taunted you. YES! This helped me so much! Your tips are priceless as I revamp my lifestyle to promote health and wellness in every possible way. Minimalism is becoming a core part of my protocol!
Thank you!! I have a very creative 8 year old. She got sooooo many crafts for her birthday and since then (4 months ago) she stopped creating. Her space is just overwhelming. We are going back to basics so she can start creating again.
I’m so glad I watched this. I almost skipped it as I didn’t think I needed to worry about my arts and crafts. But I was just gonna put them all in a tote when I organize and declutter the area they’re in. And that would’ve been the same as having them in the drawer like they are now. I LOVE the art cart from IKEA! And there are so many similar options on Amazon. Totally doing this! I think it will help my kids spend more time coloring etc!
All of the things you recommended I agree with! I would add hammocks. We have found these for $15 at Aldie and my kids will lay in them all day with books. Also, slack line or ninja warrior course. But you have to have a tree for that. It has kept our girls occupied for hours on end
Tempura paint sticks are great for the kids. They go on smooth like paint, but dry in 90 seconds or less. There is no water or brushes, so clean up is a breeze. Love watching your videos!
As always your video hit just the right points. I have begun removing clutter a lot, lately. Your advice is gold. My child had sensory issues , so we bought every kind of art supply to experiment. Glue, glitter, crayons, paper, beads , string, scissors and clear contact paper (for sun catchers). 1 shoe box is all we have for 2 kids now.
Thank you, I'm always so glad to hear that! And so glad to hear that one shoebox is plenty now!
Every time I watch your videos, I am so motivated! 💚
I absolutely love the way you show “before” photos throughout your videos. It shows that your suggestions are tried and true!
Just found your channel and am overwhelmed with gratitude. I’m determined to take back peace and time for what really matters. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
I love these videos! I’m sitting in line at the Salvation Army at the moment watching more of them. The best part is I have 4 boxes & a large bag of stuff I’ve decluttered sitting in my back seat ready to be donated!! Thank you for all of the hard work you put into helping others create space in their lives.
This is one thing that we are in the process of doing right now to help streamline our home and make things easier and more accessible for the kids (and us!). We are setting up an art/tinker/STEM station in a little odd nook and a reading nook in a dining area that we didn't use. Everything is basically in one big room, but still separated into organized areas. I'm so excited about this!
Oh I think that is a brilliant way to organize. I will adopt your art/tinker/STEM station because my twins are such different creatures (one artsy the other scientific), I can make the station so both find it helpful. I am going to put it on the tv wall so hopefully they will be tempted to use it instead of turning on the tv.
Sooo true!!! Just wanted to mention that I recently found a store...I believe it's actually called I'D.E.A.S., that will thankfully take all your used or new office and creative supplies. I thought it was such a great idea! ;) My kids get so many of those art sets too, I'm really excited to have found a place to donate the unused supplies. Just wanted to mention you don't have to necessarily throw out the unused or partly used supplies. Thank you so much for your channel!!! I've learned so much!
I LOVE, LOVE what you have to say. This (among many others) video was so inspirational! Gave me great ideas on how to change a lot of things up for my kids! Thank you!
So true…when I'm reorganizing anything it always seems like the most helpful tip is to get rid of half of it, haha! I agree - taking away some of the big blue bins and replacing them with simpler systems looks great and especially inviting for the kids to come create!
RIght!?! When we work with sellers we always tell them "make sure all of your closets and cabinets are only half full so it looks like your house has plenty of storage" and then they do it and are like "this is so nice, we should keep it this way!" I'm slowly trying to convert everyone we work with into a minimalist ;) haha, just kidding!!
Again I love all the information you share with being a minimalist Mom it is so helpful and I've learned so much... my little granddaughter is still very young and so my other daughter who takes care of her when her mom is working.... does craft activities with her and her crafts are located out in the garage on a shelving unit that I've told the whole family that they are welcome to get into at any point in time and that has been a real help. I know that one day I will have to pair those things down because she'll be getting into those crafts supplies, herself....and will need a system of her very own....your ideas are amazing and I thank you so much. (The reason I came up with the shelving idea I have a all my scrapbooking and rubber stamping supplies out in the garage and with these I decided I just needed a separate area so that the grandkids could be able to take advantage of using those supplies that they could, themselves....thus shelving system has also helped my other daughter do her projects for school...and, this area has also helped with VBS, ect.... again, hanks so much...love your kids crafting area.😀
I know this is an old video but it I’m here because I have a very crafty 5 year old. So far what we have is a basket for finished art she wants to keep, a desk to work at, a tray for paper, an open container for makers, and a couple hooks on the wall for scissors and tape. We also have one bin of other art supplies (paint, googly eyes etc) that’s kept at the bottom of my linen closet. It works-ish but still could use some tweaking because her desk looks like a tornado hit it on a daily basis.
Fantastic! We bought an old armoire second hand and use it as our art cabinet. I put Sterilite drawers inside with the supplies. I love that I can close it up!
Oh that sounds perfect!
She's just talking
I just bought one of those caddies from the dollar tree to organize our pencils and markers for school and it's working very nicely :) I have a few of the dollar tree drawer organizers for crayons and other markers and dry erase markers in our school cabinet with the coloring books.
Totally understand! I have 4 boys and they love art... and we have an overstock as well! I'm all about keeping it streamlined
Thank you for your great ideas. You make it sound so achievable
Thank you so much for sharing this. I had asked about art supplies on an old video so thank you for making this. I really appreciate it and every sentiment is exactly the same in our house (we get so much from others and our desk(s) look crazy).
I'm SO glad that it is helpful!!! :)
Your videos are so well done and extremely helpful! Thank you!
Wonderful, as always! 💜 I love how you are minimalist but in a very realistic way, especially with having multiple kids.
Can you do a grocery shopping/meal prep and kitchen one next?! :)
THANK YOU, that means alot!! YES, meal planning and grocery shopping will be coming up in September!
The Minimal Mom yay! Thank you! I can't wait!!! :) The kitchen/meals is the most stressful thing for me. Lol I definitely need to get simplify something.
Keep the videos coming please I have 8 kids 12yr-1month so this is super helpful and I'm obsessed!!!!
8 kids, that is awesome!! I would love that, I'm still praying for Tom to get there ;) But four healthy kids is of course awesome, too ;) I'm very glad these are helpful!!!
Even a drawer will work as an art center!
I was looking for videos like these!!! Love them. Art supplies OMG!
Saludos from Puerto Rico!
The art cart!!!! Why didn’t I think of that! Thank you!!!
I wamted to do this too, but then wasn't sure bc things were not behind doors for when they werent in use, but i think the wheels make it accessible.
Super helpful. Thank you
I set up a new craft supply area in our new custom built-ins. Everything is in shoebox size plastic containers with lids. Boy was that a mistake.it's really hard to clean up and frustrating to get everything back in the right boxes. I like the containers you used because they're open. this video helps me think about how our craft supply space could be better.
Alright on my way to playroom to make a craft cart! So smart
I found your channel yesterday and I just love it! You give such practical advice and really motivate me to simplify our household.
Thanks a lot!!
Thank YOU Alice!!
I just found your channel and I’m loving your tips! I love how you described the IKEA bins. We have so many IKEA bins in the expedit shelf and they are just too big for useful storage. I’ll be switching them out next!
I'm always glad to hear that I'm not the only one who doesn't actually find them helpful! My first thought is always "whats wrong with us that this isn't working, they must sell a million of those a year" then I realize that maybe I'm not alone ;)
Yes! Thank you! I always felt like I was the only mom who couldn’t get a handle on all the art supplies.
Love this! My daughter will be 9 in June & she is very creative & artistic so I needed this video. Though now I need to find the video of what you do with all the “creations”. ;). She’s always making things for us & she’s very sensitive about anything being thrown away. Needless to say her crafting area is hard to maintain. 😳
Oh my goodness! I just found your channel and have been binge watching ever since! Thank you for giving us moms permission to not have to live in this EXCESS world! Love your channel!
Welcome and Thank YOU!!! :)
Just found your channel a few days ago and as I tried to go through the art supplies today I thought I wonder if she’ll do a video - and surprise you have lol - thanks so much - now to pair it down to the basics😊
Hi Dawn!! I absolutely love your channel!! It’s helping me so much! I was wondering if you could do a video of decluttering Mom Art Supplies? I know you’re not really a crafter but maybe Diana is or a friend? My Craft Room is my worst room and I’d love help!!
Thank you for all the helpful suggestions!
Did you attach the desk to the cube shelving system yourself? Or is there a way to do that at ikea? As in are there brackets there for this?
Recently found yr chanell... Love it.... U r so vibrant
Yes! I was excited to see this video, as organizing art supplies is on my to-do list before the start of the new school year. Great tips! Love your channel! 💕
Thank you Danae!!! :)
Thank you! Your videos have been so helpful.
Thanks for sharing the great pictures of your art setup! I’m chipping away and it feels so good😂
What about dress up clothes? Thanks!!
We used to have one of the bins in our toy storage dedicated to dress up clothes, but now our girls don't play with them anymore, it was a sad day when I donated them!!!
(they were store bought princess dresses so they easily compacted into there!)
We had an old suitcase that worked out well for some very old dress up adult clothing. When we were done it got closed and tucked away...easy to donate when finished too since both container and contents can go together for next family to enjoy!
Just found your channel!! Love it!! Hello all the way from El Salvador ♥️
El Salvador, that is awesome! I would LOVE to come and visit!!! :)
I Love most of your videos 💜 like this one, thank you, My 8yo daughter also loves anything creative, My place is almost always a mess... I was an organized person before I had kids
would love to see your cleaning routine! Love the videos I’ve been binge watching lol new subscriber here
Where do you get the kallax insert shelves?? I’ve looked for those for a while & cant find them
What about when you have younger kids that draw on walls and tables and need to ne monitored when using art supplies? Where do you keep them? Thats what I struggle with in a small house
This may not apply to you anymore but I have a cabinet that I put a hasp and combo lock on. I have things like the art supplies, batteries, games with little pieces, and little legos in there. I keep that stuff locked up and bring it out when they ask for it so they aren’t pulling it out and confetti-ing it all around the house. When they are older I’m sure I won’t need to lock it up anymore.
I love your black cube storage for the kids toys in your living room. Did you buy it black or paint it? I cannot for the life of me find it anywhere and I would like to purchase one!
Hi, I'm loving your videos! I would like to see more about how you added the extra shelves. I have having the same problem that the cubbies hold way too much. Thanks.
Well Tabitha, I did it while Tom was at work and it maybe wasn't the best quality (at first)!!! ;) He helped me reinforce them later :) But basically all I did was buy a piece of pre-finished shelving from Home Depot that was about the same depth as the cubes. I cut two pieces to the width of the cubes. Then I cut four "bracket pieces" out of the same board, each were about 2" x 6". I screwed each bracket piece into the side of the cube and then just set the shelf on top. Unfortunately, with the angle I was trying to screw the bracket pieces of wood in at, it was kind of difficult, so I just had one screw in each, it held everything in place, but definitely wasn't a long term solution! So then Tom went back and added an extra couple of screws to each, now it is very solid :) They'll cut the boards for you at the home improvement store if you don't have a saw!
I love that shelf desk you got for your kids! I’m trying to find it on IKEA online and can’t. Do you have the link or remember what exactly it’s called? Thanks!
I have 3 boys and my 4th and youngest is a girl. She loves art projects! The boys don't. These tips are super helpful. I think I will look for a cart, because we do not have room for this awesome desk!!!
I love you workstation for the kids how can I get one? Just started watching and finished cleaning my kitchen out. I can’t believe what I found lol Thanks for the great info
Dawn I have been binging your videos and tackling my home and cannot begin to tell you how significant and inspirational you have been. I have quite a predicament: how do I ~storganize (made that up) art supplies for my 4 year old when my 2 year old gets into EVERYTHING?! If anyone has ideas please share. Any solution I've thought up that gives 4yo independence being able to access also means it will NEVER be maintained bc 2yo can get it. Can open doors, climbs, is very exploratory. I have really been stumped and don't want to deprive my eldest by waiting for the other one to "mature." Thank you please help!
My son loves to ride his balance bike outside he’s two & be going so fast i be like slow down wait for me 😂😂 I’m in my declutter era & simplifying my space
Our 2 daughters are blessed to have all 4 of their grandparents still living, and living locally too. They are very generous to all of us, but it’s just too much stuff! I don’t know how to stop it without hurting their feelings. It’s got so much worse during lockdown. They send gifts, to make up for us not being able to meet up. Our girls don’t get at all excited now when a parcel arrives, and are very quickly bored with the contents, so it’s affecting their gratitude too. What can we do? X
Ok question for this video on the organising of the art corner! I love LOVE this and definitely something I need to do with my kids BUT what do you do with the drawings they al draw you or the things they make? Do you keep everything? Keep it for a little while or bin it? Which I alway feel Guilty over..
TY
Where did you get the white shelves to divide the cubes? I didn’t see them at IKEA (I have the exact same unit!)
Hi Sarah! I actually made them myself, but I didn't highlight that because they would have turned out better if Tom had done it and I had just waited for him to get home ;) I just bought a piece of pre-finished shelving from Home Depot that was close to the depth that I needed (the cubes are 15 1/2" deep) and then used a saw to cut it to width (they'll do this at the home improvement store for you, too) and then I cut some smaller pieces (6" x 2") to use as "brackets" to hold up the shelves. I used screws to attach the brackets to the sides of the cube walls. I WISH Ikea offered something like this, would have made life easier!!! :)
@@TheMinimalMom Ikea used to offer the shelves like that. It's too bad they discontinued them :( I remember seeing them on clearance a couple years back right when they discontinued the Expedit and replaced it with the Kallax system. They're such a good idea! We should all petition Ikea to bring them back.
My kids have a art clothesline on a bedroom wall. They display their art for awhile then it's not on my fridge or in a bin . When they need more room it's time to throw some out😉
Can you please share what you're doing with these art projects? How long and where do you keep them?
My kids are young, 4 & 1. Yet still, we've accumulated SO MUCH arts n crafts. Unfortunately they're not at an age yet where I can safely leave stuff out. I struggle with finding a balance of keeping it tucked away safe + wanting my 4 year old to create on her own, which would mean leaving things accessible to her. This is definitely an area of struggle for me.
Where did you get your art desk and cubbie set up? I want to make an art area in the playroom rather than the kids using the dining room table.
Ikea!
What's in the top row? We have the same system but I have books on top. Curious to know what's behind those cubbies doors:)
I was hpping you would do a video on adult art supplies bc it's about having items available to make yhings, but then I thought that the same thing could actually apply to my art too. Really think if I use the cricut machine or could hand cutting work bc i dont use it for intricate designs anyways. Just an example. And i made a corner of our dining room into art area and they dont reallu use it bc that's not where the action is. I have an area.in living room now that would be perfect to tone down supplies and i have the space bc no more toys they dont play with. Thanks as always
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Where did u buy the bins for the pensils,markers crayons ect?
Can you add a link for the shelves and kids tables?
How do you keep your three year old from dumping all the crayons out or drawing in random places around the house?
bubbles, chalk, spray bottles,even paint the fence with water
But how do you keep the younger kids from taking everything out all at once? And to clean up their messes when they're done? So many times I find that they've had a ton of creative fun, and run off to do something else...leaving art supplies in reach of the toddler that she should not be using unsupervised.
Woukd you leave a link to desk you have?
Yes! Here is the desk and shelves: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S09123087/ (we used non-adjustable legs which made it a little less expensive: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10217971/)
Where’s the kids desk from?
Funny. In Germany IKEA is more on the expensive(r) side..
Too bad the table doesn’t fold up to cover the cubbies.
Do any of your kids want to collect things? My son seems to want to collect things, so he has those collections in bins, but he doesn't do anything with them and he is 12.
YES! They do, but after awhile we talk about if they are actually still collecting or if it is time to let them go so it hasn't become too big of a problem yet!
How do your kids earn money?
Right now, just from birthdays or doing jobs for their grandparents. We haven't started allowances yet because we feel that they should help around the house as part of living here, but we will eventually put an allowance system in place for extra jobs as they get older.
@@TheMinimalMom that's what I was thinking, your kids already have their jobs around the house, so how would they earn money then lol and how many chores are enough? Not to overwhelm a child and leave room for extra chores.
Where is the TV ? Lol
"Even though our house is small...". Lady, you don't know what a small house is 🙈